1. Science and Faith, continued: The Value of Religion
A few weeks back I began a series on science and faith. I expressed concerns
about how religion sometimes blinds people to verifiable facts, and this can
lead to unwise decisions and unjust practices. Further, institutional
religions can neglect their core mission to serve and instead become focused
on self-interest and self-preservation. This, for example, can account for
the shameful child sexual abuse scandals of the Catholic Church. Yet, for
several reasons, I think religion can serve a valuable role in the struggle
for peace and justice.
First, those who share a common faith often have similar values and beliefs
that inspire them to work together. This has helped generate great places of
worship, hospitals, and universities.
Second, members of religious communities, who are dedicated to each other,
can be vital sources of support when members experience personal crises.
None of us make it through life without personal crises, which include the
loss of loved ones, the end of an important relationship, a health crisis,
or a major career upheaval.
Third, religions often teach that we should serve God. This sentiment can
inspire people to continue in the struggle for justice even if the
short-term prospects are bleak. This is particularly true of animal
protectionism, because the forces against animals are so strong. Many animal
advocates "burn out" due to repeated failure, but those who see their work
as dedicated to God can feel a sense of meaning and accomplishment even if
there are no evident tangible changes.
Jesus taught us to work together as a community to serve God. He did not
tell his disciples to worship him; he told his disciples to follow him.
While faith can bind, it can also blind. Unquestioning faith is easily
exploited by charismatic leaders and often leads to harm. The
counter-balance is science, which can provide verifiable, reproducible
evidence that should guide our choices. A central tenet of science is that
no theory is unassailable. Just as any theory in science can be questioned,
healthy religious communities permit members to question religious tenets.
This can sometimes be uncomfortable, but a religion that does not
countenance questioning is a religion that can readily do much harm.
Stephen R. Kaufman, M.D.
2. All-Creatures.Org Ministry